Martha Edna Mercer

Martha Edna Mercer was born on July 4, 1937, to Allen and Helen Morris in Mineral Wells, Texas. She attended Overton Black School and, following her education, worked diligently as a housekeeper. Later in life, she devoted herself to caring for others through her work at Sunshine Nursing Home and At Home Healthcare, before eventually becoming a devoted stay-at-home mother.

At an early age, Martha gave her life to Christ and joined Scott’s Memorial C.M.E Church, where she was a faithful member for many years. She served proudly as a Stewardess and participated in numerous church program committees. Martha was also honored to be a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Martha was a loving and devoted wife to her late husband of 42 years, Arthur J. Kennedy. In later years, she found companionship again and was married to Travis Mercer for 21 beautiful years.

Martha’s life was a shining example of love, generosity, and strength. She was deeply devoted to her family and never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. She found great joy in spending time with her loved ones, fishing, and working in her yard planting flowers. Her radiant smile lit up every room and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Martha entered eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Helen Morris; her eldest son, William Vann Jr.; and her siblings, Boyd White, Allen “Sonny” Morris, Nancy Jo Kennedy, Aline Hatter, and Irene White.

Martha leaves to cherish her memory: her loving husband, Travis Mercer of Overton, TX; her sister, Ann Haynes of Midlothian, TX; her children Judy Stein (Anthony) and Gessar Mendoza of Longview, TX; Staffany Yvonne Square and Arthur Jerrell Kennedy (Clemmeka) of Overton, TX; and her adopted daughter, Trina Brager of Overton, TX.

She also leaves behind a legacy of grandchildren: Quentin Mario Gardner, Chancey Stein, Sheree Stein, Shelbe Haynes, Alexis Harvey (Timothy), Patrizia Phillips (Gregory), Draze, Derrington, and Ashlynn Kennedy. 

Her great-grandchildren include Quenisha and Quiesha Gardner, Quelaysha Cameron, Kaden Meredith, Kacey, CJ, Chase, and Zoey Stein, Jaymerson Darensbourg, Krystian, Korian, and Trey III Haynes, Kamryn, Kaelyn, Karsyn, and Kasen Harvey, Gregory and Greyson Phillips, Jaylen and Jaeda Kennedy.

Martha will be remembered with love and admiration by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Her spirit, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.